Fourteen former international cricket captains from around the world have written a joint letter to Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, expressing deep concern for the health of former Prime Minister and cricket legend Imran Khan. The letter calls for Khan to be treated with “dignity and basic human consideration” while in custody.
Recent reports indicate that Khan is suffering from a serious eye condition, which his family claims has left him almost completely blinded in one eye. Allegations of medical neglect during his detention have sparked widespread concern both in Pakistan and across the global cricketing community.
The petition, drafted by former Australian captain Greg Chappell, has been signed by some of the game’s most iconic figures, including Ian Chappell, Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Clive Lloyd, Allan Border, Michael Atherton, Nasser Hussain, Michael Brearley, David Gower, Steve Waugh, John Wright, Kim Hughes, and Belinda Clark.
In the letter, the former captains stated:
“Recent reports concerning his health—particularly the alarming deterioration of his vision while in custody—and the conditions of his imprisonment over the past two and a half years have caused us profound concern.”
They also highlighted Khan’s remarkable contributions to cricket:
“Imran Khan’s contributions to the game are universally admired. As captain, he led Pakistan to their historic 1992 Cricket World Cup victory—a triumph built on skill, resilience, leadership, and sportsmanship that inspired generations across borders. Many of us competed against him, shared the field with him, or grew up idolizing his all-round brilliance, charisma, and competitive spirit. He remains one of the finest all-rounders and captains the sport has ever seen, earning respect from players, fans, and administrators alike.”
The letter comes amid increasing pressure on the Pakistan government regarding Khan’s medical care in jail. His family has been denied visits for several months and has demanded that his personal doctors be allowed to examine him a request that has so far been ignored. Reports over the past weekend suggested he might be taken to a hospital for treatment, but no action has yet been taken.
This rare show of international cricketing solidarity has brought renewed global attention to Khan’s detention and health, underscoring concerns over human rights and medical neglect in custody.